I-35 was closed in both directions from Hockley to Valley View Friday morning as crews respond to the crash, officials say.
COOKE COUNTY, Texas — FedEx confirmed one of their employees died in a multi-vehicle crash involving a diesel and oil spill that closed Interstate 35 in both directions from Hockley to Valley View in Cooke County Friday morning, according to the Texas Department of Transportation.
The Texas Department of Public Safety also confirmed one fatality in the crash on I-35 at Hockley Creek Road, about 20 miles south of the Oklahoma border.
The Texas Department of Transportation initially said the crash involved a “radioactive spill,” but the Texas Department of Public Safety said in an update that there was a Hazmat cleanup for a diesel and oil spill.
The crash, reported shortly after 7 a.m., involved a rock hauler, FedEx truck and a car, officials say.
“Our thoughts are with all of those involved in this tragic accident. We are deeply saddened over the loss of our team member and extend our sincere sympathies to our colleague’s loved ones at this difficult time,” a FedEx spokesperson said in a statement. “Safety is our highest priority, and we are cooperating fully with the investigating authorities.”
Officials said the car was carrying medical waste and that it would “take hours to clean up.”
One lane of the highway was open in both directions as of around 10:30 a.m., according to TXDOT.